The Champaign Police Departmentwill be participating in the 2014 Labor Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” impaired driving campaign, which focuses on the deadliest time of day for motor vehicle fatalities.

The intensified enforcement effort against the overwhelming number of late-night impaired drivers and seat belt law violators emphasizes the disproportionate number of traffic deaths occurring during late-night hours. According to data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the midnight to 3 a.m. timeframe is the deadliest time on Illinois roads. The data also shows this time of day has the highest percentage of alcohol involved drivers and the lowest occupant seatbelt restraint use.

“To help prevent fatalities on Illinois roadways, we are stepping up our late-night enforcement efforts, making sure impaired drivers are off the road and motorists are buckled up,” said Sgt. Joe Ketchem “If you drive impaired or unbuckled, you are subject to getting a ticket or even arrested.” The Champaign Police Department recommends designating a sober driver, and encouraging friends and family to refrain from driving while impaired. Other important tips include:

Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys.

If you are impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.

Promptly report impaired drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement.

Wear your seat belt and make sure all passengers are safely buckled up. It is your best defense against an impaired driver.

This campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds through IDOT’s Division of Transportation.